This annual event is a collaborative partnership, with responsibilities being shared amongst the students, parents and staff members. Students play a key role in every part of the event. Students even peel all the potatoes and vegetables as well as prepare the stuffing. Parent volunteers cook the turkeys and two former parents, Roger and Debbie Miller, have coordinated the kitchen for the past 21 consecutive years. Parent co-ordinators, Leslie Parks and Erin Myers as well as Debbie Connell, an Office Administrator at the school played key roles in coordinating the event.

On the day of the dinner, students welcomed their guests as they arrived and showed them to their seats. Once guests were settled, students hand delivered the meals. Grandparents, community members and other special guests enjoyed turkey, stuffing, potatoes, carrots, coleslaw and an assortment of pie for dessert.

After the dinner, the students entertained their guests with a drumming performance led by grade 5/6 teacher Steve Thompson.

“This is a great community event that teaches our students important life skills,” explained Connell. “They get hands-on experience with preparing a meal, planning and executing an event and socializing with others.”

Community partnership was a key factor in the success of this event. Both private donors and local businesses including James Purcell Insurance, Nationview Masonic Hall, Joe’s Computer, Joe’s Bar and Grill, Spencerville and District Optimist Club, Drummonds Fuel’s, Royal Canadian Legion Branch, Spencerville Home Hardware, Village Pantry, and B&H Grocery generously sponsored this initiative that has grown into a community activity.